Out Of The Box Thinking When It Comes To Retirement Plans

This chapter of my life is proving to be rather fun. Retirement, I feel, is something that many people fear or would rather not think about until they have to. It seems too far-fetched and in the future to be worried with today’s thoughts. But, the one thing I can tell you, is life moves at a faster pace than we realise. More often than not we are chasing our tails in many aspects of our life. While the retirement phase does need an element of planning, there are things that you can look forward to and embrace once work is no longer a commitment. It isn’t boring and sitting around twiddling your thumbs. It’s a chance to get out there and do different things. Perhaps all the things you daydream while sat at your desk with a deadline looming. So I thought I would share with you some of the out of the box ideas for when retirement comes around. I hope it gives you the inspiration and motivation you need to make some plans for your future.

Start to tick off those bucket list destinations

First and foremost, travel could become a huge part of your life when you retire from the day job. You will no longer be restricted to annual leave requirements and giving notice of when you can and can’t take those holidays. You have a period of time stretched before you and a chance to really see the world. The chances are, even at the age you are today, you will have a mental bucket list. A list of all the places you want to see in the world. Some people are lucky enough to start ticking them off, but a majority of people wait until retirement to start exploring new and exciting places. Working now and making the right investments could help you fund this for your future.

Live in different parts of the world

If travel is a big part of your life, then why not take it one step further when you retire and actually live in a different country? You could choose to spend certain seasons or months in particular regions and look for a house for rent quite simply online. You could even buy in different places if you are looking to make the investment. This gives you the chance to experience new cultures and make the most of the time you have.

Do something a little crazy

Maybe you like the idea of doing something a little out there and crazy. I don’t blame you. When you work, you have to conform to a set of rules and regulations, and so when you retire you have this new found freedom. Get a tattoo if you have always wanted one. Dye your hair a radical colour. Do what makes you feel good and happy. The freedom is something like you will have never felt before and it is something to embrace.

Start up a new hobby

The next thing to think about would be a new hobby. Perhaps as you work right now, you feel you have no time to commit to learning new skills or enjoying a pastime. But as you retire this could be something you begin as part of the new phase of your life. It could be dancing, yoga, meditation or sports. But retirement gives you the chance to commit to something new, and also you will have the opportunity to meet like-minded people and forge new friendships.

Embrace technology and enjoy it

You may think as you get older you become more aware of technology and the advances it makes, but actually, as you get older, it is the perfect time to embrace technology. Facetime and Facebook can be great ways of staying in touch, and by this point in your life, you may find that you want to embrace different applications. Perhaps dating or apps that can help meet new people. It certainly might be the time to get back in tune with computers and tablets.

Enjoy time with the family

Finally, this time of your life gives you a golden opportunity to spend it with your loved ones. As you get older, you may have grandchildren or extended family to enjoy and see. It certainly gives you the chance to make some incredible memories. Whether that is in your home environment or on trips away.

I hope this has motivated and even inspired you to consider alternative ways to spend your retirement.

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I’m Elaine a Neonatal Nurse who retired from the NHS at age 55. I’m loving this next phase of my life – Retirement is the best job I ever had. I want to share over 50’s lifestyle tips including age appropriate beauty reviews, coping with the trials and tribulations of the Menopause, weight gain around the middle, fashion, travel. Also using my Neonatal experience for gift guides and ways to support families of Preterm and sick newborns.